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Ergonomic Syringe and Adaptor (11028)

*Abstract

The University ofLouisville is actively seeking a company interested in commercializing a novelergonomic syringe and/or re-usable syringe adaptor that facilitate bloodwithdrawal and allow for one-handed operational functionality. Existingcommercially available syringes can be very cumbersome to use for phlebotomypurposes, as they are primarily designed for injecting fluids. Recognizing theneed for improved ease of blood draw (or the withdrawal of other bodilyfluids), a UofL researcher has developed an ergonomic phlebotomy syringe and areusable, low-cost adaptor for existing syringes that improve the ease ofapplying sufficient pressure to the plunger to withdraw blood. These syringeand adaptor designs will allow for more rapid blood draws while minimizingpotential trauma to the patient’s vein or tissue.

                 

Applications
• Veterinary and human medical fields
• Phlebotomy, cystocentesis, needle aspiration biopsy, and other applications that require syringes to be used for handling fluids

                                          

Advantages
• Improves and facilitates the withdrawal of fluids
• Allows for one-handed operational functionality
• Incorporates features that promote ergonomically desirable and consistent finger placement
• Facilitates a medical or veterinary technician’s ability to stabilize the syringe when in use
• Provides a contoured grip surface tailored to the functional position of the fingers and hand
• Adaptor is re-usable, low cost, and may be fitted to existing syringes
• Ease of use for operators having limited dexterity
• Easier, safer, less stressful experience for patient and operator

                   

                                           

Technology
The syringe, invented by a UofL researcher working closely with veterinarians, addresses the need for a syringe capable of withdrawing fluid in a highly controlled manner. Two structural properties of the syringe facilitate this objective: (1) the barrel and grip are uniquely designed to mold to the operator’s hand, thereby allowing for easier grasp of the apparatus and, in turn, a more controlled application of pressure to the plunger, and (2) the plunger itself is designed so that the operator’s fingers are not initially extended when fluid withdrawal begins, thereby allowing for a more ergonomic hand position and application of pressure to further withdraw the plunger from the barrel. An adaptor is also provided that can be detachably secured to existing syringes to facilitate one-handed operation thereof. Due to the ergonomic designs and ease of use, the syringe and adaptor developed at UofL have the potential to become a first-choice for veterinary phlebotomists.

                   

Contact:
Eric Castlen
University of Louisville, Office of Technology Transfer
(502) 852-2965 • eric.castlen@louisville.edu
ULRF Ref. 11028 • Patent Pending

Country/Region

USA